A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a hemicolectomy. Which of the following is a subjective indication that the client needs PRN pain medication?
The client's heart rate is 110/min.
The client is guarding their abdominal incision.
The client exhibits facial grimacing.
The client reports pain.
The Correct Answer is D
The subjective indication that the client needs PRN (as needed) pain medication is when the client reports pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and it is essential to address the client's self-reported pain level and provide appropriate pain management.
Explanation for the other options:
a) The client's heart rate is 110/min: An increased heart rate can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
b) The client is guarding their abdominal incision: Guarding the abdominal incision may suggest discomfort or pain, but it is an objective indication that can be observed by the nurse. Subjective indications focus on the client's self-report.
c) The client exhibits facial grimacing: Facial grimacing can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Again, subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
In this scenario, the most reliable and appropriate indication for administering PRN pain medication is when the client reports pain, as this acknowledges the client's own perception of their pain level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should include maintaining elbow restraints on the infant in the plan of care following cleft palate repair. This helps to prevent the infant from touching their surgical site and disrupting the healing process.
a) Allowing the infant to have soft foods may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's diet should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
c) Instructing the parents to feed the infant with a spoon may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's feeding method should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
d) Telling the parents to avoid brushing the infant's teeth for two weeks may be appropriate, but it is not the highest priority. The infant's oral care should be determined by the provider and based on the infant's individual needs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C
Rationale:
A) Encourage strength-training exercise: Strength-training exercises can be beneficial in building muscle mass and improving overall strength. However, for a client with leukemia experiencing chronic fatigue, this may be too strenuous and could exacerbate their fatigue rather than alleviate it. It is better to encourage light to moderate activities based on their tolerance.
B) Increase the client's fluids to 4 L per day: While adequate hydration is important, increasing fluids to 4 L per day may not be suitable for all clients and could pose risks, particularly if there are concerns about fluid balance or renal function. This recommendation should be tailored to the client's specific needs and medical condition.
C) Increase protein in the diet: Increasing protein in the diet can help improve energy levels and support the body's repair and regeneration processes. For clients with leukemia who are experiencing chronic fatigue, a high-protein diet can aid in maintaining muscle mass and overall nutritional status, helping to combat fatigue.
D) Encourage the client to have continual bed rest: Encouraging continual bed rest can lead to deconditioning and further exacerbate fatigue. It is important to balance rest with periods of gentle activity to maintain some level of physical function and avoid complications such as muscle atrophy or deep vein thrombosis.
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